Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A method for operating a postpress processing installation ( 1 ) for producing and processing product units which are compiled from a jacket product (A) and a plurality of part products and/or inserts (a, b, c, d), the method comprising: producing the product units according to a predetermined production plan in a manner adapted to a route along which the product units travel and are processed by means of at least one stacking device ( 70 , 70 . 1 ) to form a sequence of packages (N, S), the product units being personalized and/or addressed only immediately before or only inside the at least one stacking device ( 70 , 70 . 1 ), and in that all the product units that have not been processed in the at least one stacking device ( 70 , 70 . 1 ) are personalized and are made available for packaging by a discharge station ( 80 ), which is available for personalization and/or addressing, wherein, in the event of defects arising in the course of the production of the product units (P) for the route (R), with the result that product units (P) that have been rectified and/or produced in additional quantities in the production sequence lie outside the route (R), said product units that have been rectified or produced in additional quantities are not processed in the at least one stacking device, but are transported to the discharge station ( 80 ) and gathered together into an end package (E), which is then added to other packages (N, S) on the route, which other packages (N, S) are processed by means of at least one stacking device ( 70 , 70 . 1 ) so as to form a sequence of packages.
This invention relates to a method for operating a postpress processing system used in producing and packaging product units. The system compiles product units from a jacket product and multiple part products or inserts. The method involves producing these units according to a predefined production plan, guiding them along a processing route where at least one stacking device arranges them into a sequence of packages. Personalization or addressing of the product units occurs just before or inside the stacking device. Unprocessed units are personalized at a discharge station before packaging. If defects occur during production, causing some units to deviate from the planned route, these units are corrected or produced in additional quantities and bypass the stacking device. Instead, they are directed to the discharge station, where they are gathered into an end package. This end package is later integrated into the sequence of packages processed by the stacking device. The method ensures efficient handling of both standard and corrected product units, maintaining production flow while accommodating deviations.
2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the packages (N, S) are produced on a single stacking device ( 70 , 70 . 1 ) or distributed on more than one stacking device ( 70 , 70 . 1 ), the packages (N, S), when more than one stacking device ( 70 , 70 . 1 ) is used, being compiled alternately or by sections of the route into the correct package sequence consisting of the standard packages (N).
This invention relates to a method for producing and distributing packages, particularly for organizing and stacking packages in a correct sequence. The method addresses the challenge of efficiently compiling packages into a predefined order, especially when multiple stacking devices are involved. The packages, which may include standard packages and possibly other types, are produced either on a single stacking device or distributed across multiple stacking devices. When multiple stacking devices are used, the packages are compiled alternately or by sections of the route to ensure they are arranged in the correct sequence. This approach allows for flexible and scalable package production while maintaining accurate ordering. The method ensures that packages are properly organized, whether they are processed on one device or distributed across several, improving efficiency in packaging systems. The invention is particularly useful in automated packaging and sorting systems where maintaining package sequence is critical.
3. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the packages (N, S) produced in the at least one stacking device ( 70 , 70 . 1 ) are provided with readable information in respect of their content and/or with a package identification, said information being printed on a cover sheet or directly onto an external surface of an externally situated final printed product in the package (N).
This invention relates to packaging systems for printed products, specifically addressing the need for efficient and accurate identification of packaged items. The method involves producing packages containing printed products, such as newspapers, magazines, or other publications, using at least one stacking device. The key innovation is the application of readable information directly onto the packages, either by printing on a cover sheet or directly onto the external surface of the outermost printed product within the package. This information includes details about the package contents, such as product type, quantity, or other relevant data, as well as a unique package identification. The printed information ensures traceability, simplifies inventory management, and enhances automation in distribution processes. The method improves upon traditional packaging systems by integrating identification and content verification directly into the packaging workflow, reducing errors and increasing operational efficiency. The system is particularly useful in high-volume printing and distribution environments where accurate tracking and handling of packaged products are critical.
4. A method for operating a postpress processing installation ( 1 ) for producing and processing product units which are compiled from a jacket product (A) and a plurality of part products and/or inserts (a, b, c, d), the method comprising: producing the product units according to a predetermined production plan wherein a required number of final products is divided up according to the production plan into a whole number of standard packages and into a part package of further required product units and in a manner adapted to a route along which the product units travel and are processed by means of at least one stacking device ( 70 , 70 . 1 ) to form a sequence of packages (N, S), the product units being personalized and/or addressed, only immediately before or only inside the at least one stacking device ( 70 , 70 . 1 ), and in that all the product units that have not been processed in the at least one stacking device ( 70 , 70 . 1 ) are personalized and are made available for packaging by a discharge station ( 80 ), which is available for personalization and/or addressing producing a whole number x/n of standard packages (N) from the product units (P) for the product sequence of the route, without the product units that have been rectified or produced in additional quantities, with the at least one stacking device ( 70 , 70 . 1 ), x being the total number of product units for a route minus the product units that have been rectified or produced in additional quantities, and n being the number of product units in the standard package, detecting or identifying a remainder or number of further required production units, respectively, for according to the production plan, and processing or producing the part package with the detected or identified number of further required product units of the remainder, wherein the part package comprises a smaller number of product units than the standard packages.
This invention relates to a method for operating a postpress processing system used in producing and packaging product units. The system compiles product units from a jacket product and multiple part products or inserts. The method involves producing product units according to a predefined production plan, which divides the required number of final products into a whole number of standard packages and a smaller part package. The product units are personalized or addressed either immediately before or inside a stacking device, which arranges them into a sequence of packages. Unprocessed product units are personalized at a discharge station before packaging. The method ensures that the total number of product units for a given route, minus any corrected or additional units, forms a whole number of standard packages. The remaining product units, which form the part package, are processed separately. The part package contains fewer units than the standard packages. This approach optimizes packaging efficiency by minimizing waste and ensuring accurate fulfillment of production orders. The system dynamically adjusts for variations in production, such as corrections or additional units, while maintaining precise packaging requirements.
5. The method according to claim 4 , wherein, in the event of defects arising in the course of the production of the product units (P) for the route (R), with the result that product units (P) that have been rectified and/or produced in additional quantities in the production sequence lie outside the route (R), said product units that have been rectified or produced in additional quantities being discharged via a discharge station ( 80 ) and being gathered together into an end package (E), which is then added to the other packages (N, S) on the route, which are then processed by means of at least one stacking device ( 70 , 70 . 1 ) so as to form a sequence of packages.
This invention relates to a method for managing product units in a production line, particularly addressing defects that arise during production. The method involves detecting defects in product units as they are produced along a predefined route. When defects occur, affected product units are either rectified or additional units are produced to compensate. These rectified or additional units, which may not align with the original route sequence, are diverted to a discharge station. At the discharge station, these units are gathered into an end package. This end package is then integrated back into the sequence of packages along the route. The integrated packages, including the end package, are subsequently processed by at least one stacking device to form a continuous sequence of packages. The stacking device ensures that the packages, including those containing rectified or additional units, are properly aligned and ordered for further processing or distribution. This method improves production efficiency by ensuring that defective units are corrected or replaced without disrupting the overall production flow, while maintaining the integrity of the package sequence.
6. A postpress processing installation ( 1 ) for the production and processing of product units (P) which are compiled from a jacket product (A) and a plurality of part products and/or inserts (a, b, c, d) in a manner adapted to a route along which the product units travel, comprising: a device for the production of the product units ( 10 ) according to a predetermined production plan wherein a required number of final products is divided up according to the production plan into a whole number of standard packages and into a part package of further required product units and in a manner adapted to the route along which the product units travel, the device including at least one stacking device ( 70 , 70 . 1 ), a discharge station ( 80 ) configured to gather together product units that have been rectified or produced in additional quantities into an end package, and a transport device for transporting the product units (P) to the at least one stacking device ( 70 , 70 . 1 ) or to the discharge station ( 80 ), a first personalization unit being arranged in the direction of transport immediately before or inside the at least one stacking device ( 70 , 70 . 1 ) and a second personalization unit being arranged in the direction of transport immediately before or inside the discharge station ( 80 ), wherein the part package comprises a smaller number of product units than the standard packages.
This invention relates to a postpress processing system for producing and processing product units composed of a jacket product and multiple part products or inserts. The system is designed to optimize production workflows by dynamically adjusting to a predetermined production plan. The system divides the required number of final products into standard packages and a smaller part package, ensuring efficient routing of product units along their travel path. The system includes a production device that integrates at least one stacking device for organizing product units, a discharge station for consolidating corrected or excess product units into final packages, and a transport mechanism to move product units between these components. Two personalization units are strategically placed: one immediately before or within the stacking device, and another before or within the discharge station. This arrangement allows for customization at different stages of production, ensuring flexibility in personalization while maintaining workflow efficiency. The part package, containing fewer product units than standard packages, accommodates variable production demands, reducing waste and improving adaptability. The system ensures seamless integration of personalization steps with packaging, optimizing both production speed and accuracy. This approach is particularly useful in industries requiring high-volume, customized product assembly, such as publishing or packaging.
7. The postpress processing installation ( 1 ) according to claim 6 , wherein the personalization unit is an addressing unit in the form of a printer ( 51 , 52 , 53 ) or a labelling unit.
This invention relates to a postpress processing installation for handling printed materials, particularly focusing on personalization or addressing of printed products. The system addresses the need for efficient and flexible personalization of printed items, such as envelopes, labels, or other mail pieces, within a postpress workflow. The installation includes a personalization unit designed to apply personalized information, such as addresses or other data, to printed materials. This unit can be configured as a printer, capable of printing variable data directly onto the material, or as a labeling unit that applies pre-printed labels. The printer may use digital printing technology to ensure high-quality, variable personalization, while the labeling unit allows for the application of pre-printed adhesive labels, offering an alternative method for addressing or customization. The installation is integrated into a postpress workflow, meaning it operates after the primary printing process, typically handling tasks like folding, cutting, or sorting. By incorporating personalization at this stage, the system ensures that printed materials are customized efficiently without disrupting the main printing process. The flexibility of the personalization unit allows for different methods of applying personalized information, accommodating various production requirements and material types. This approach enhances the overall efficiency and adaptability of the postpress processing system.
8. The postpress processing installation ( 1 ) according to claim 7 , wherein the device for production of the product units ( 10 ) in a manner adapted to the route along which the product units travel comprises a collecting zone ( 30 ) having a first conveyor device and a plurality of feed devices ( 31 , 32 , 33 , 34 ) for preferably part products and/or inserts (a, b, c, d) for producing collections (K) of part products and/or inserts (a, b, c, d).
A postpress processing installation is used in printing and packaging to handle printed products after they leave the printing press. The installation includes a device for producing product units, such as booklets, brochures, or other collections of printed materials. The device is designed to adapt to the travel route of the product units, ensuring efficient assembly and processing. The device includes a collecting zone with a first conveyor system and multiple feed devices. These feed devices supply part products or inserts, such as pages, covers, or additional printed materials, to the conveyor. The inserts are combined in the collecting zone to form collections, which are then transported along the conveyor. The system allows for flexible assembly of different combinations of part products and inserts, enabling customization of the final product units. The installation ensures precise alignment and synchronization of the feed devices with the conveyor, optimizing the production process. This setup improves efficiency in postpress operations by automating the assembly of multi-component printed products. The modular design of the feed devices allows for easy integration of additional components or adjustments to the production line.
9. The postpress processing installation ( 1 ) according to claim 8 , wherein the device for production of the product units ( 10 ) in a manner adapted to the route along which the product units travel comprises an inserting device, an inserting drum ( 40 ), or a driving device, in which the collections (K) of part products and/or inserts (a, b, c, d) are inserted or driven into a jacket product (A).
This invention relates to a postpress processing installation for handling printed products, specifically for inserting collections of part products or inserts into a jacket product. The installation includes a device for producing product units by inserting or driving these collections into the jacket product. The device is adapted to the route along which the product units travel, ensuring precise and efficient insertion. The device may include an inserting device, an inserting drum, or a driving mechanism. The collections, which may consist of multiple part products or inserts, are organized and inserted into the jacket product in a controlled manner. This system improves the automation and accuracy of postpress processing, particularly in applications where multiple components need to be assembled into a final product. The installation ensures that the insertion process is synchronized with the movement of the product units, enhancing productivity and reducing errors in the assembly process. The invention addresses the need for efficient and reliable methods of combining printed materials in postpress operations, particularly in high-volume production environments.
10. The postpress processing installation ( 1 ) according to claim 9 , wherein the transport device comprises a gripper conveyor ( 21 ), which transports the jacket products from a feed device or a feeder ( 60 ), to the inserting device ( 40 ) and, after insertion of the collection (K) of part products and/or inserts (a, b, c, d), transports the product units (P) to the stacking device ( 70 , 70 . 1 ) and/or to the discharge station ( 80 ).
This invention relates to a postpress processing installation for handling jacket products, such as booklets or magazines, during the production process. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently transporting and assembling printed products by integrating multiple processing steps into a single automated workflow. The installation includes a transport device equipped with a gripper conveyor that moves jacket products from a feed device or feeder to an inserting device. The inserting device incorporates additional part products or inserts into the jacket products, forming complete product units. After insertion, the gripper conveyor transports the assembled product units to either a stacking device for organized stacking or to a discharge station for further handling. The system ensures precise alignment and seamless transfer of products between stages, improving production efficiency and reducing manual intervention. The gripper conveyor's design allows for controlled movement, minimizing damage to the products during transport. This installation is particularly useful in high-volume printing and binding operations where automated handling of multiple components is required.
11. The postpress processing installation ( 1 ) according to claim 6 , wherein the stacking devices ( 70 , 70 . 1 ) are provided with a device for the addition of a package identification, said device comprising a feeder for a cover sheet printed with the package identification information and/or a cover sheet printer or a printer, which prints the package identification information directly onto an external surface of an externally situated final printed product in the package (N).
This invention relates to a postpress processing installation for handling printed products, specifically addressing the need for efficient and accurate package identification in automated production lines. The system includes stacking devices that organize printed products into packages, with an added feature for applying package identification to each package. The identification system can use either a pre-printed cover sheet fed onto the package or a printer that directly marks the package with identification information. The printer may apply the identification to the outermost printed product in the package, ensuring visibility and traceability. This solution improves logistics and inventory management by automating the labeling process, reducing manual intervention, and minimizing errors in package tracking. The installation is designed to integrate seamlessly into existing postpress workflows, enhancing production efficiency while maintaining product integrity. The identification method ensures that each package is uniquely marked, facilitating sorting, distribution, and quality control in high-volume printing operations.
Unknown
November 5, 2019
Browse 5M+ US patents with plain-English claim translations and AI-generated analysis.